What goes wrong
Most calls are about a door that won't latch, a key that breaks in the cylinder, or a deadbolt that has seized. We work on pin-and-tumbler cylinders, mortise locks, rim cylinders and tubular latches, and we replace or repair broken tailpieces, cams and spindle fittings. If a lock has a reinforced strike or a long-throw deadbolt, we check the door jamb and screws as well as the cylinder; a problem in how the door sits or the strike plate often looks like a lock failure but is a hardware alignment issue.
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What the job involves
We handle rekeying when someone moves out, duplicating keys and changing who has entry, and we install or swap out cylinders and knobs if tenants need different control. We can fit solid forged knobs or heavy-duty deadbolts and match new cylinders to existing keyways when possible. We drive out from Havertown and bring a selection of cylinders, tailpieces, replacement knobs and mounting screws so we can get the physical parts on-site and make the work hold up under regular residential use.
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Good to know
When you call, we’ll tell you how soon we can come and what to expect on arrival. While waiting, make the area safe and clear: set pets aside and keep the entry clear. Tell us whether the door opens at all, if the key turns but won’t retract the bolt, or if the key snapped off; that helps us prepare the right tools and parts for a cylinder extraction or for drilling and replacing a seized lock.
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Worth knowing
Have something ready to show ownership or residency and a photo of the lock if you can send one before we arrive. If there are multiple locks on the same door, note which one you use day to day and any brand or marking on the cylinder; that speeds choosing a matching replacement. We work in Swarthmore and nearby towns such as Nether Providence Township and Rutledge, and we fit, repair and secure common residential hardware so the lock functions as intended, not just looks fixed.
